This original, English .45 caliber lead Whitworth bullet is a rare artifact recovered from Bannerman’s Island in New York State.  The hexagonal lead projectile was produced in England for the highly accurate British ‘Whitworth’ target or sharpshooter rifles.  These bullets were used during the Civil War and only the Confederates are known to have imported the rifles and its special ammunition for use in the war. Made by the Eley Brothers firm in London, the bullet appears to be a drop, unfired and not distorted.  Missing is its original paper ‘tube’ wrapping that was secured to the lead bullet and contained a charge of eighty-five grains of black powder. Lead head is a medium gray color and has just traces of surface grime and dirt in protected areas. This “Whitworth” bullet specimen is in very good condition and is a great example of a specially imported cartridge used exclusively by Confederate sharpshooters.